Battery FAQ — Enphase
How long will my battery last during an outage?
This depends on three factors:
- Your battery size (kWh capacity)
- Your backup reserve setting
- What loads are running in your home
The Enphase App gives you an estimated backup duration based on your actual usage history.
General rule: Running essential circuits (lights, refrigerator, phone charging, router) lasts significantly longer than running central air conditioning or an electric dryer.
Where to check: Battery > Backup Duration in the Enphase App
Can my battery recharge during an outage?
Yes! If the sun is shining, your solar panels will continue to charge your battery during a grid outage.
This is one of the key advantages of pairing solar and storage. On a sunny day, a well-sized system can recharge your battery enough to extend an outage significantly.
How it works:
- Solar panels generate DC power
- Battery charges from solar (priority)
- Battery powers your home simultaneously
- Cycle repeats as long as sun is shining
My battery isn't charging — what should I do?
Step 1: Check for Errors
Open the Enphase App and look for any error alerts.
Step 2: Check Solar Production
- Look at your solar panel production in the app
- Low/zero solar + depleted battery = possible system issue
Step 3: Check Operating Mode
- Confirm your operating mode in the app
- In Full Backup Mode, your battery should be charging aggressively
Step 4: Contact Support
If everything looks normal but the battery still isn't charging:
Contact Customer Success: 800-203-4158
Will my battery work if the power goes out at night?
Yes!
The battery discharges regardless of whether it's day or night.
How it works:
- Grid goes down at night
- Battery supplies power immediately and automatically
- Switchover is fast — most customers report lights don't even flicker
- Battery continues powering backed-up loads until depleted or sun rises
Can I charge my battery from the grid without solar production?
Yes!
In most operating modes: If your solar production is insufficient to meet your home's needs and maintain your reserve level, your system will draw from the grid to keep the reserve topped up.
In TOU (Time of Use) Mode: You can program it to charge from the grid specifically during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper.
What's the lifespan of my Enphase battery?
Enphase IQ Batteries are designed to retain meaningful capacity over many years of daily cycling.
Best practices for longevity:
- Operate within recommended 80–90% depth of discharge range
- Set 10–20% backup reserve
- Reduces stress on battery cells
- Extends overall battery life
Warranty coverage:
- 25-year product warranty covers defects
- Performance degradation beyond specified thresholds
- See [[warranty-coverage|Warranty Coverage]] for details
Quick Reference
| Question | Short Answer |
|---|---|
| How long during outage? | Depends on battery size, reserve, and loads. Check app for estimate. |
| Recharge during outage? | Yes, if sun is shining |
| Work at night? | Yes, automatic switchover |
| Charge from grid? | Yes, in most modes |
| Lifespan? | 25-year warranty, daily cycling designed in |
| Not charging? | Check app for errors, solar production, operating mode |
Related Articles
- [[enphase-battery-settings|Managing Your Enphase Battery: Settings, Modes, and Storm Guard]]
- [[backup-reserve|What Is Backup Reserve and How Should I Set It?]]
- [[power-outage|What Happens During a Power Outage]]
- [[storm-guard|What Is Storm Guard / Storm Watch?]]
- [[warranty-coverage|What's Covered Under Warranty]]
Still Have Questions?
Contact Customer Success:
- Phone: 800-203-4158
- Email: Via the Venture Home app
- Webchat: Available on our website during business hours